< Translator’s note: The original formatting of the stories has been preserved. The translations aim to remain as close as possible to each author's original wording and expression.

 

I mostly wear oversized or “men’s” clothing. I’m a girl, I’m 23. I feel uncomfortable in clothes from the women’s section. Firstly, the quality there is usually worse than in the men’s section. Secondly, it’s often impractical: it’s cold to wear, there are no pockets, the fabric doesn’t stretch, it restricts movement, and has poor thermal regulation. Thirdly, when I wear it, I get catcalled.

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In spring I decided to buy new jeans and a jumper. Plain jeans, wide at the hem and high-waisted. The jumper was also simple enough, but fitted. I wanted to try putting the look together, but it was new for me. I hadn’t dressed like that in a long time — especially anything close-fitting.

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But on the very first day I wore this outfit, a man on the street whistled at me and said: “Nice arse!” I felt sick, and I walked away quickly to get off that street. I felt revolted by my own clothes, and even wanted to throw them out.

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I don’t feel free. It’s easier for me to wear men’s clothes.

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Anonymous author; story shared in 2023 as part of the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign